I had dental surgery today to extract a tooth and prepare for an implant. While getting teeth pulled or having implants placed might be routine procedures for dentists, it’s still surgery and takes time to bounce back from. As I start my recovery, I wanted to share some tips and insights into coping with oral surgery.
It’s important to keep the extraction site very clean while it heals to prevent infection. I need to gently rinse with warm salt water after eating and before bedtime. My dentist said no swishing or spitting forcefully, just letting the water fall out of my mouth gently. Brushing is okay but I have to be very delicate around the healing area.
Here are some tips that may help promote healing after your dental surgery:
- Rest and take it easy for the first few days. Avoid strenuous activity while your mouth is healing. Get plenty of sleep as well.
- Apply ice packs to the outside of your face during the first 24-48 hours where the surgery was performed. This will help reduce swelling and inflammation.
- Take any prescribed pain medication as directed by your dentist. Don’t exceed the recommended dosage.
- Stick to soft, cool foods for the first few days. Things like yogurt, apple sauce, ice cream, soups, etc. Avoid very hot or spicy foods.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and cool beverages. Avoid alcohol and carbonated drinks.
- Be very gentle when brushing your teeth. Avoid the surgery site but keep brushing and flossing your other teeth normally.
- Use saltwater rinses (a teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water) to keep the area clean, especially after meals and before bedtime.
- Don’t smoke or use any tobacco products, as these will delay healing.
- Follow all post-op instructions from your dentist carefully regarding medication, activity level, and follow up appointments.
The most important things are to rest, avoid irritation or trauma to the surgery site, keep it clean, and allow your body the time it needs to heal properly. Let your dentist know if you have any concerns. With proper care, you should heal well.
Dental surgery, extractions and implants are hard on your body and require diligent aftercare. Here are some natural remedies that may help strengthen teeth:
- Oil pulling – Swish a teaspoon of coconut, sesame or sunflower oil in your mouth for 15-20 minutes each day. This helps remove bacteria and promote oral health.
- Green tea – Drinking green tea may help prevent cavities and dental decay due to the presence of antioxidants called catechins.
- Aloe vera – The inner gel from aloe leaves can be applied directly to gums to reduce inflammation and strengthen gums.
- Chewing xylitol gum – Xylitol is a natural sweetener that can help reduce cavity-causing bacteria in the mouth.
- Vitamins – Taking vitamin D, calcium, vitamin K2, and phosphorus supplements can help strengthen tooth enamel.
- Bone broth – Sipping on bone broth made from beef or chicken bones supplies collagen, gelatin, calcium, and other minerals that benefit teeth.
- Probiotics – Taking oral probiotic supplements can help populate your mouth with beneficial bacteria that support dental health.
- Cloves – Clove oil contains antimicrobial compounds called eugenol that can help reduce oral bacteria.
- Shiitake mushrooms – They contain lentinan which has antibacterial effects against plaque.
Be sure to consult your dentist, especially if making any major dietary changes. With a combination of natural remedies and good oral hygiene habits, you may be able to strengthen your teeth over time.
With a combination of natural remedies and excellent oral hygiene habits, I hope to take proactive steps to strengthen my teeth after this recent dental surgery. Recovery is my main focus for now, but improving my long-term dental health is also a priority.
